incites crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "incites," along with explanations and helpful tips to conquer your next puzzle. We aim to provide the most accurate and easy-to-understand answers for all word lengths.
Solutions for "incites crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SPURS: To encourage or stimulate an action or development.
GOADS: To provoke or annoy someone so as to stimulate some action or reaction.
6 Letters
STOKES: To encourage or fuel (an emotion or idea).
7 Letters
AROUSES: To awaken a feeling, emotion, or response.
8 Letters
PROVOKES: To stimulate or incite (someone) to do or feel something, especially by arousing anger in them.
More About "incites crossword clue"
"Incites" is a dynamic verb that means to encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behavior). In the context of crosswords, clues using "incites" often point to synonyms that convey a sense of provocation, activation, or stimulation. Common alternative phrasings could be "stirs up," "provokes," "activates," or "spurs on." The challenge in solving such clues lies in identifying the precise nuance and length required by the puzzle.
Crossword setters love using verbs like "incites" because they have a rich array of synonyms across different lengths and contexts. Paying attention to whether the clue implies a positive or negative incitement (though "incites" usually leans negative) can sometimes help, but generally, it's about finding the closest active synonym that fits the word count and intersecting letters.
Understanding the common associations with "incites" – such as rebellion, anger, action, or a process being started – can also guide you to the right answer. It's a clue that tests your vocabulary of action verbs and your ability to differentiate between subtle shades of meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Always check the letter count: This is your most crucial hint. For a clue like "incites," you might think of many synonyms, but only one will match the exact number of squares available.
- Consider synonyms and antonyms carefully: Think broadly about words that mean "to start," "to encourage," or "to provoke." Sometimes the clue is a straightforward synonym, other times it might be an antonym or a more obscure definition.
- Utilize crossing letters: The most effective way to confirm an answer for a clue like "incites" is to see how it interacts with other words in the grid. If your chosen word's letters don't form valid parts of the intersecting words, it's likely incorrect.
- Think about context: Is the puzzle themed? Does the clue have a specific tone (e.g., formal, informal, historical)? While "incites" is fairly direct, context can sometimes nudge you towards a less obvious synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine the correct length for an "incites" answer?
The number of letters required for a crossword answer is usually indicated by the grid itself or by numbering next to the clue. Always cross-reference your potential answer with existing letters in the grid to ensure it fits the exact length required. For 'incites,' possible answers vary from 3 to 8+ letters, so the given length is crucial.
What if multiple words fit the "incites" clue for the same length?
If you have multiple options for a clue like 'incites' (e.g., SPURS and GOADS are both 5 letters), look at the crossing words. The letters that intersect with your potential answer must also form valid parts of the crossing words. This is often the best way to narrow down the correct solution when synonyms abound.
Are there common synonyms for "incites" used in crosswords?
Crossword setters frequently use synonyms such as PROVOKES, SPURS, GOADS, STOKES, AROUSES, and EXCITES for 'incites'. Other possibilities might include FAN (as in 'fan the flames') or URGE. Understanding these common synonyms can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.